SOCIETAL TRANSFORMATION

Inseparable Dimensions of Societal Transformation

    Cultural
    Economic
    Political
    Psychological

Theoretical Contributions

    Complex and Unfolding Interaction between Top-down and Bottom-up Influences

        Vygotsky’s Sociocultural Model of Change
        Moghaddam’s Social Reducton Model of Resistance to Change

Research Contributions

    Multidisciplinary, Multilevel Approach

        Misperceptions of Work Environment and Family Structure in Germany
        Changing Values across East Europe
        Reactions in Hong Kong Before Reunification with China

Practical Contributions

    Match Transformational Goals and Methods

        Transforming Structure
        Transforming Infrastructure
        Transforming Relationships Patterns
        Transforming Norms

            Restoration of Law Enforcement (Romania)
            Flying Doctors (Rwanda)

    Increasing Social Capital

        Norms of Reciprocity
        Civic Virtues
        Interpersonal Trust

            Green Belt Movement (Kenya)
            Rural Advancement Committee (Bangladesh)

Societal Transformation Contributes to Psychology

    Regional Psychology Organizations

        EFPA and the European Diploma

    National Psychology Organizations

        Canadian Psychological Association and the Integration of Inuit Qaujimanituqangit Principles

DISCUSSION:

➢    What are the dangers of introducing ethnocentric or merely insensitive solutions to societies in flux (e.g., the psychological equivalent of economic “shock therapy”)?

➢    In what ways are society-wide changes reflected in the direction taken by U.S. psychology (e.g., science, practice, education)?